The Defence Headquarters has dismissed reports suggesting that terrorist groups have established operational bases in Nigeria’s South-West, insisting that recent security concerns do not reflect the presence of any entrenched insurgent network in the region.
The clarification follows public anxiety triggered by the recent abduction attacks involving Baptist Nursery and Primary School in Yawota, Community Grammar School in Ahoro-Esinele, and L.A. Primary School in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
In a statement signed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, expressed sympathy to victims’ families, the Oyo State Government, and residents affected by the incident, describing the attack as a “callous and reprehensible act” that has deeply shaken the nation.
He assured that the military is fully committed to securing the safe release of all abducted victims, stressing that ongoing operations are already in motion.
“The full weight of the Armed Forces is being brought to bear to ensure the safe and unconditional return of every abducted victim,” he stated.
The Defence Headquarters further noted that extensive clearance operations had previously been carried out in the Old Oyo National Park, during which several criminal hideouts were dismantled and illegal activities disrupted.
It maintained that current intelligence does not support claims of any organised or permanent terrorist base in the South-West forests, warning that such narratives could cause unnecessary panic among residents.
The statement added that while isolated criminal activities may occur, they should not be misconstrued as evidence of a sustained insurgent presence in the region.
